Osteochondroma of the proximal femur: A case study and review of literature

Abstract

Osteochondroma is the most common benign bone tumour. It accounts for approximately 35% of benign bone tumours and 9% of all bone tumours. Most are asymptomatic, but they can cause mechanical symptoms depending on their location and size. Following the completion of dissection we used the dissected parts for bone maceration. We observed a projection at the proximal femur just distal to the greater trochanter that is hook like, extending downward for a distance of 3cm.  Obviously there was no muscle attachment to them.  This hook like projection was x-rayed and we confirmed that the cortex of the lesion is continuous with the cortex of the femur with a homogeneous continuation of the medulla. This was then identified as a case of osteochondroma. Admittedly, because the history of the individual was not available in the present case, it is not possible to comment upon the clinical profile resulting from the anomaly. However femoral anteversion, valgus, impairment of hip flexion acetabular dysplasia resulting in subluxation of the hip, valgus deformity of the knees and angular limb deformities are some of the defect commonly associated with osteochondromas affecting the proximal femur.